NZ takes its biotech to the world

Neuren Pharmaceuticals, led by chief executive David Clarke, is developing a brain repair drug and is part of the 2005 delegation. Picture / Mark Mitchell

New Zealand's largest biotech delegation will step out today to do battle with their competitors and rivals in Philadelphia.

Although the delegation comprises more than 60 people representing 47 biotech companies and organisations, it will be severely outnumbered. But Commerce Minister Pete Hodgson - who heads the delegation - says its members are determined to make an impact at the world's leading annual biotechnology convention, BIO 2005.

They will be competing with more than 18,000 scientists, business executives, venture capitalists, government officials and job seekers.

The companies attending include: cancer researcher Proacta; Lactopharma, a company developing an anti-inflammatory drug; and Neuren Pharmaceuticals, led by chief executive David Clarke, which is developing a brain repair drug.

The business pitches will be varied: they will talk about using biotechnology to improve the way farmers grow crops, doctors treat disease, and first responders detect terrorism, and tackle topics such as bioterrorism, genetically engineered food, stem cell research, prescription-drug safety and steroids used by athletes. "BIO is an opportunity for the New Zealand biotech community to show the world what it has got, including original, high quality research and an ability to generate valuable intellectual property," said Mr Hodgson, who was science minister until recently.

Part of New Zealand's bid to gain attention will be a New Thinking pavilion which has recycled many of the features of the successful New Zealand stand at the world's largest information technology fair, CeBIT, held in Hanover, Germany, in March.

The Government promoted the New Thinking programme as helping businesses compete globally by building on the "clean, green" image and seeking recognition for creativity, innovation and technology.

The New Zealand stand will again be alongside Australia, after last year's conference showed potential for the two delegations to work together.

The convention includes 150 educational sessions and workshops, 200 company presentations, 4000 partnering meetings and 1450 organisations exhibiting highlights of their technology.

- NZPA